The Omoda C5 has been recalled in Malaysia owing to a flaw that resulted in the rear axle case of the car breaking.
Images have been circulating online of a grey Omoda C5 in the South East Asian country parked on the side of the road with the back of the car resting atop the rear wheels.
The issue was reported to the company, and the Malaysian Road Transport Department swiftly issued a recall for 600 C5 units around the country.
South African models not at risk
Following the Malaysian recall of the C5, TopAuto reached out to Omoda South Africa for comment on this issue and whether the models sold here are at risk of the same problem.
The company confirmed that it conducted an immediate investigation into the domestic C5 units after it caught wind of what happened in Asia and found that the local stock is unaffected by the same faults.
As a result, no recall is necessary for the C5 vehicles that have been sold here, it said.
“We assure our valued customers that apprehensiveness is unnecessary. We take this matter seriously. Omoda & Jaecoo is dedicated to upholding the highest vehicle safety and customer service standards,” said a company representative.
“The situation is being monitored carefully, and should there be any development, it will be communicated to the affected customers.”
Omoda stressed that the safety, reliability, and trustworthiness of its products are paramount, and that it is offering all its customers the opportunity to contact their local dealership to arrange for a free inspection to ensure peace of mind.
The South African Omoda C5 units are unaffected by the defect found in the Malaysian units.
The Malaysian problem
The incident that sparked the Malaysian recall saw a relatively new C5’s rear trailing arm snap, rendering the car undriveable.
In its investigation, Omoda found that a worn-out tip of an automated welding machine at the supplier of the rear axle assembly plant had been replaced, but the equipment had not been recalibrated once the new tip was added.
Pictures shared by the owner of the Omoda C5 on social media showing the snapped rear trailing arm.
Consequently, the rear trailing arm was not welded in place correctly, and Omoda parent company Chery is now recalling all C5s produced between August 14 and August 17 2023 in the country as a result.
Only 60 units are believed to be affected by the issue, but 600 units are being recalled as a safety measure.
The carmaker is contacting owners about the issue, and owners can also check the VIN number of their vehicles to see whether it is subject to the recall.
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